Opening the list of the best short bedtime stories for adults online is "The Secret History" by Donna Tartt, a psychological thriller that revolves around a group of classics students who conduct a bacchanalian ritual that culminates in murder at an elite Vermont college. Narrated by Richard Papen, an outsider who becomes entangled with this enigmatic clique, the story unveils the dark secrets of these students. What follows is a web of lies, guilt, and paranoia that threatens to unravel their lives.

Donna Tartt's writing is richly descriptive, evoking a sense of foreboding throughout the narrative. Her prose is dense, bordering on the philosophical, immersing readers in the intellectual world of the characters. The novel delves into themes of morality, the consequences of one's actions, the allure of knowledge, and the tension between intellectualism and the human psyche. It questions whether knowledge and beauty can excuse immorality.

As a psychological thriller, "The Secret History" is masterfully executed. This novel is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers and those who appreciate intricate character studies. It's a testament to the enduring impact of a well-written story.

Author: Donna Tartt

Published: September 16, 1992

Link to read: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29044.The_Secret_History?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=Xaqu4d7HPH&rank=1

"The Fault in Our Stars" is a young adult novel that follows the lives of Hazel Grace Lancaster and Augustus Waters, two teenagers dealing with cancer. They meet at a support group and form a deep connection. As their relationship unfolds, they navigate the challenges of illness, friendship, love, and the search for meaning.

John Green's writing style in "The Fault in Our Stars" is characterized by wit, humor, and emotional depth. He skillfully captures the voices of teenage characters, making the story engaging and relatable. The novel delves into themes such as the fragility of life, the search for meaning, the impact of illness on identity, and the power of love and friendship in the face of adversity. It asks profound questions about the human condition.

"The Fault in Our Stars" is highly recommended for readers who enjoy emotionally charged stories with well-drawn characters. It's a thought-provoking and moving exploration of life's complexities. Its exploration of illness and love makes it one of the best short bedtime stories for adults online.

Author: John Green
Published: January 10, 2012
Link to read: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11870085-the-fault-in-our-stars?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=L5GLHJhlCN&rank=1

"The House at the Edge of Night" is a novel by Catherine Banner, published in 2016. It's a multi-generational family saga set on a small island off the coast of Italy. The story begins during World War I when a young doctor, Amedeo Esposito, arrives on the island of Castellamare to work at the island's only medical clinic. He falls in love with a local woman, Pina, and together they build a family and a life on the island.

Banner's writing style is evocative and lyrical, capturing the essence of the Italian landscape and the unique culture of Castellamare. The characters are vividly drawn, each with their own hopes, dreams, and secrets. As the novel unfolds, readers become deeply invested in their fates.

"The House at the Edge of Night" is a beautifully told, multi-generational story that immerses readers in the enchanting world of Castellamare. It is a tale of love, resilience, and the enduring power of home and family. Catherine Banner's storytelling skill and her ability to evoke a strong sense of place make this novel a compelling and memorable read for those who appreciate historical fiction and richly developed characters.

Author: Catherine Banner
Published: July 12, 2016
Link to read: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/27163154-the-house-at-the-edge-of-night?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=sRpXg8fX9f&rank=1

"Whitefoot" is a delightful tale by best-selling author Wendell Berry, centered around a small but spirited mouse named Whitefoot. With her "elegant whiskers" and a "reddish brindly tan" coat, Whitefoot resides at the edge of the woods, content in her belief that she's at the center of her world. Unbeknownst to her, a vast universe lies just beyond her haven, including a river that represents a world of immense size and wonder.

Wendell Berry, known for her lyrical prose, crafts "Whitefoot" with finesse, capturing the essence of nature's beauty and the small yet significant life of a mouse. The story's themes emphasize the universal lessons of discovery, adaptation, and the enduring spirit of creatures large and small.

"Whitefoot" beautifully explores themes of resilience, adaptability, and the limitless wonders of the natural world. Readers who enjoy "Whitefoot" may also appreciate the works of other nature-focused authors like E.B. White and Beatrix Potter, who similarly bring the enchanting world of animals to life through storytelling and illustration.

Author: Wendell Berry
Published: January 1, 2008
Link to read: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3687368-whitefoot?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=Abyrh7OOKq&rank=1

"Hills Like White Elephants" is a brief narrative penned by Ernest Hemingway, one of the best short bedtime stories for adults online. In this story, a couple lingers at a rural Spanish railway station, anticipating a train to Madrid. Their seemingly nonchalant dialogue conceals the profound emotional undercurrents that define their relationship.

The story's tension revolves around a decision they must make, symbolized by the distant hills that resemble white elephants. It becomes evident that the girl is pregnant, and the American is urging her to have an abortion.

Hemingway's writing style in "Hills Like White Elephants" is characterized by minimalism, with much left unsaid. He masterfully uses dialogue to convey the underlying emotions and conflicts between the characters. The story addresses themes of communication, the impact of choices, and the complexities of relationships.

Ernest Hemingway's "Hills Like White Elephants" is a literary gem for readers who appreciate stories that rely on subtext and understatement to explore deep emotional themes. It's a compelling read that invites reflection on the complexities of human relationships.

Author: Ernest Hemingway
Published: August 1, 1927
Link to read: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13239950-hills-like-white-elephants?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=ma3cREYdsT&rank=1

The next name on the list of the best short bedtime stories for adults online is "Kew Gardens", a 1919 short story by Virginia Woolf. The story is set in the famous Kew Gardens in London. It follows a group of visitors as they stroll through the garden on a sunny day. Rather than having a conventional plot with a central conflict or characters, the story focuses on the thoughts, observations, and impressions of the various individuals encountered along the way.

"Kew Gardens" explores themes related to the passage of time, the transience of life, and the interconnectedness of all living things. The story encourages readers to pause and observe the world around them, finding beauty in small moments and the natural world.

Virginia Woolf is a key figure in modernist literature, and "Kew Gardens" can be compared to her other works like "Mrs. Dalloway" and "To the Lighthouse." It shares similarities with the stream-of-consciousness style of authors like James Joyce, particularly in his novel "Ulysses."

This story is recommended for readers who appreciate modernist literature and experimental narrative styles. It's a brief but thought-provoking work that invites readers to contemplate the intricacies of human perception and the world's beauty.

Author: Virginia Woolf
Published: January 1, 1919
Link to read: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3720746-kew-gardens?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=m2cHxW4CdC&rank=4

"30 Things I Love About Myself" is a book by Radhika Sanghani that explores themes of self-love, self-acceptance, and body positivity. The book doesn't follow a traditional narrative plot. Instead, it consists of a series of essays and reflections, each focusing on a different aspect of self-love and self-acceptance. Radhika Sanghani shares her personal experiences, struggles, and triumphs in her journey towards embracing her body and herself.

Radhika Sanghani's writing style in "30 Things I Love About Myself" is characterized by its candidness, humor, and relatability. She uses personal anecdotes and witty observations to engage readers. Her writing is conversational, making it accessible and enjoyable for a wide audience.

"30 Things I Love About Myself" is a collection of essays and reflections where the author candidly shares her personal journey towards self-love and body confidence. Through humor, honesty, and relatable anecdotes, Sanghani addresses societal pressures, beauty standards, and the importance of self-acceptance.

Author: Radhika Sanghani

Published: January 4, 2022

Link to read: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/57800580-30-things-i-love-about-myself?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=ArJKzsB0KG&rank=1

"Cousin Tribulation's Story" is a short story written by Louisa May Alcott, renowned for her enchanting Christmas tales. In this touching narrative, she unfolds the story of a modest family choosing to generously share their simple breakfast with someone less fortunate. The tale underscores themes of togetherness, compassion, and appreciation, and its timeless essence evokes warm emotions that resonate deeply.

Louisa May Alcott's writing style in this story is characterized by warmth and simplicity. She paints vivid pictures of her characters and their emotions, allowing readers to connect with the narrative on a personal level. Alcott's storytelling is heartwarming and filled with sentiment. The story emphasizes the importance of empathy, understanding, and embracing the unique qualities of each family member.

"Cousin Tribulation's Story" is recommended for readers who enjoy heartwarming tales of family and personal growth. It's particularly suitable for those who appreciate classic literature and the works of Louisa May Alcott, known for her insightful portrayal of family dynamics.

Author: Louisa May Alcott

Published: 1868

Link to read: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/34032378-cousin-tribulation-s-story?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=RhSc42DgVm&rank=1

"A Telephone Call" is a short story by Dorothy Parker that delves into the thoughts and emotions of a woman who eagerly awaits a phone call from her significant other. As she anxiously contemplates whether the call will come, the story offers a glimpse into the inner workings of her mind, highlighting themes of anticipation, love, and the vulnerabilities that come with them.

Dorothy Parker's writing style is introspective and masterful. She skillfully delves into the protagonist's psyche, vividly portraying her inner turmoil and vulnerability. The story is characterized by its rich use of first-person narration, which effectively immerses readers in the protagonist's emotional rollercoaster.

"Good Trouble", a collection of eleven short stories by Joseph O'Neill, stands in last place on the list of the best short bedtime stories for adults online. These stories offer a masterful exploration of contemporary life in the early twenty-first century. O'Neill takes a close look at the quirks and intricacies of his characters' lives, revealing the subtle yet significant complexities that lie beneath the surface.

The stories in this collection cover a wide range of topics and situations, from bourgeois facial hair trends to parental sleep deprivation. O'Neill's characters grapple with everyday dilemmas, revealing the sometimes surprising beauty of ordinary life. They wrestle with moral choices, personal fears, and moments of vulnerability that resonate with readers.

O'Neill's writing style in "Good Trouble" is characterized by incisive wit and humor. He skillfully captures the essence of modern life, highlighting the often absurd and contradictory aspects of our existence. While his stories can be humorous, they also delve into the underlying violence and pettiness that can pervade contemporary society.

Author: Joseph O'Neill

Published: June 12, 2018

Link to read: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36500297-good-trouble?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=SqbxDM9XgO&rank=3